The FIMBA GB +50 and 55 men travelled to Newcastle upon Tyne for a two day camp and games this weekend, as they prepare for the FIMBA 2024 European Championships. It gave a chance for several ballers from the North to attend and trial for both teams.
Day one was a continuation of the previous training sessions where the fitness standards were recorded and set for the coming months ahead. Despite several players nursing injuries, all the players recorded a stat and did well throughout. They went through a series of sprints, press up’s, shuttle runs etc and times were set against standards set by players of similar ages and experience.
The +50’s are being coached in the interim by +55’s Head Coach Des Williams, who has set the bar high and achievable for all players, laid out the philosophy of play and standards needed to represent GB. New Assistant Coach, Dom Short took part of the session and using his experience with NBL 1 players at City of Birmingham he worked on wing play, screening and close match ups.
The squads then went to Hobrough Healthcare for a shower and swim before attending a team bonding meal at the splendid Grade II mansion, Halliwell Dene Hall in Hexham.
The players that went to Malaga that we have retained know the standards we need to set so that we can podium. All of them have responded well, looked after themselves during the break and now that we have Dom Short onboard, who has been a huge asset in the short time he’s been with us.
Des Williams – FIMBA GB +55 Men Head Coach
Williams appointed Paul Hobrough as +50’s Captain, an unusual step considering there’s no official Head Coach as yet.
Paul brings with him a huge amount of experience at competing in international and world class competitions, is a world leading physiotherapist and has a drive to help recruit likeminded players from across the North of England and Scotland. In the event Dom and I take the reins for Italy, or someone comes in, Paul knows the players, plays and standards having been with us at ESBA in Portugal this year and will be a valuable asset to any coach
Day two saw the combined +50 and +55’s take on a combined 50/55’s Bald Eagles side in a thrilling game, littered with exceptional play, sportsmanship and enjoyed by all with a return game on the cards. The FIMBA GB team included several new players who gelled almost immediately but lost by 7 points as a series of missed lay ups cost them the win.
I was impressed by the speed in which the new players took to the plays, understanding and ethos of FIMBA GB. All the players bought into the strategy and spirit pushing each other hard and encouraging each other within the group.
Dom Short – FIMBA GB +55 Men Assistant Coach
This weekend was the first time the squads met as a social group and were hosted by Hobrough Healthcare, Herons Foods and Pete’s Barber Shop and ePower Trucks and was, by far, the new standard for fun, friendship and banter.
If you would like to be involved, please contact admin@fimba-gb.com
